Leaders of the Democratic Party of Korea and other pro-ruling bloc lawmakers visited Homeplus Co. on the 13th, which reopened after about a month.
Floor leader Han Byeong-do of the Democratic Party said that morning at the Homeplus Co. Gangseo store in Seoul, "Workers on the ground and their families, tenant merchants, suppliers, and even management have all endured a lot," adding, "With one heart and one mind, we were able to reopen."
Democratic Party Secretary-General Yoo Dong-soo stressed that Homeplus Co.'s rehabilitation proceedings must proceed smoothly. Yoo said, "There are about 20 days left until Sept. 4, when the rehabilitation plan is approved," adding, "We ask everyone to join together so that Homeplus Co. can be saved."
Democratic Party lawmaker Kim Nam-geun issued a strong warning to Homeplus Co.'s management, including major shareholder MBK Partners. Kim said, "Homeplus Co.'s management, including MBK, should never think they can simply wash their hands and walk away if the court decides on liquidation," adding, "The government should also never think it will just provide employment support if Homeplus Co. is liquidated." He added, "For the National Assembly, it is solely 'saving Homeplus.'"
Afterward, lawmakers from the pro-ruling bloc shopped themselves and encouraged citizens to use Homeplus Co.. Floor leader Han, together with Rebuilding Korea Party leader Cho Kuk Shin Jang-sik, pushed a shopping cart and bought olive oil, orange juice, hot dogs, dried squid, and Korean melons.
Meanwhile, 67 Homeplus Co. stores that had been closed for about a month due to the risk of liquidation resumed operations after the largest creditor, Meritz, and major shareholder MBK Partners secured 200 billion won in emergency operating funds (DIP). Whether Homeplus Co.'s rehabilitation plan will be approved is scheduled to be decided by the court on Oct. 4.